Lemon Bars with Cake Mix
If you’re looking for an easy and delicious dessert that combines the bright, zesty flavor of lemon with the comforting texture of cake, look no further than these Lemon Bars with Cake Mix. This recipe takes the hassle out of baking from scratch while delivering the same mouthwatering results. Perfect for a summer picnic, a casual gathering, or just a sweet treat at home, these bars are sure to please everyone.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Using just a box of lemon cake mix as the base, you’ll whip up a smooth, creamy lemon filling that’s both tangy and sweet. The combination of cream cheese, eggs, and lemon zest gives these bars a rich, velvety texture that’s simply irresistible. Let’s dive into the details!
Why It Works Every Time
Using cake mix as a shortcut not only saves time but also ensures a consistent and delicious result. The cake mix provides a perfect balance of sweetness and flavor, while the addition of cream cheese creates that classic lemon bar richness. This recipe is forgiving and adaptable, meaning it’s almost impossible to mess up. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete novice, these Lemon Bars with Cake Mix will turn out perfectly every time.
Ingredient Checklist
- 1 box lemon cake mix – This is the star of the show, providing a sweet and zesty base.
- 1 egg – Helps bind the crust together.
- 1/2 cup butter, melted – Adds richness and moisture to the crust.
- 8 oz cream cheese – Creates a luscious filling that balances the sweetness of the cake mix.
- 2 eggs, beaten – Essential for the filling’s smooth texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the bars.
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the filling and gives it a creamy consistency.
- 1 tsp lemon zest – Adds an extra burst of lemon flavor.
- Powdered sugar to sprinkle – For a beautiful finishing touch.
Hardware & Gadgets
- Mixing bowls – You’ll need a few for different components of the recipe.
- Whisk – Helps incorporate ingredients smoothly.
- Spatula – For scraping down the sides of bowls and spreading the filling.
- 9×13 inch baking dish – The perfect size for these bars.
- Parchment paper – Optional, but it makes for easy removal and cleanup.
Lemon Bars with Cake Mix: How It’s Done
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, 1 egg, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and resembles a thick dough. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish to form the crust.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 2 beaten eggs, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps for a velvety filling.
Step 3: Combine and Bake
Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set and the edges are slightly golden.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the lemon bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. After cooling, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a lovely presentation.
Smart Substitutions
- Butter – You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
- Eggs – Substitute with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option.
- Powdered sugar – Use a sugar substitute if you prefer a lower sugar option.
- Lemon Zest – Fresh lime zest can be used for a different citrus twist.
Errors to Dodge
- Not letting the bars cool completely before cutting can lead to messy squares.
- Overbaking can cause the filling to become too firm; check for a slight jiggle in the center.
- Using cold cream cheese can create lumps in the filling; make sure it’s softened at room temperature.
- Not measuring the powdered sugar accurately can affect the sweetness of the filling.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your Lemon Bars with Cake Mix fresh, make sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for up to a week. If you want to prepare them ahead of time, you can bake and cool the bars, then wrap them tightly and freeze for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reader Q&A
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! While lemon cake mix is perfect for this recipe, feel free to experiment with other flavors like vanilla or even strawberry for a unique twist on these bars.
What can I serve with these lemon bars?
These lemon bars pair wonderfully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a nice creamy contrast to the tangy filling.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free lemon cake mix, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to create a delicious gluten-free dessert.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the filling is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center. It will firm up as it cools. Be cautious not to overbake, as this can make the filling too dry.
Time to Try It
Now that you have all the information you need to create these delightful Lemon Bars with Cake Mix, it’s time to get into the kitchen! The combination of bright lemon flavor and creamy filling, all in a simple-to-make format, makes these bars a must-try. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the compliments you’ll receive from your friends and family. Happy baking!
Lemon Bars with Cake Mix
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, 1 egg, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and resembles a thick dough. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish to form the crust.
- In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 2 beaten eggs, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps for a velvety filling.
- Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set and the edges are slightly golden.
- Once baked, remove the lemon bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. After cooling, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a lovely presentation.
Notes
- Store leftover lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or vegan butter.
- Experiment with different cake mix flavors for unique variations.
